Life Transitions
Service
Simply put, transition is change
A life transition is the world’s way of asking us to reexamine our present way of being. Sometimes these changes are welcomed and positive experiences; like getting married, starting a dream job, travelling the world, or having a child. At other times change can be difficult for us to cope with, for example when we are in the midst of a breakup, or when our financial situation has changed, or when we have lost a job, or lost a loved one.
There are also times when life feels stagnant and we feel stuck and unsure of how to proceed. In this case the transition can be more of an internal struggle which may be in relation to self worth, or a choice that is needing to be made.
Change can be good
Regardless of the degree or intensity of the transition, one thing all transitions have in common is they force us to make changes to our existing life. And with change usually comes resistance.
If life transitions are troubling you, counselling can help you find a way to better manage the changes they bring, and can also help you initiate the changes you want to make towards a more fulfilling life.
If you feel life has taken an unexpected turn, or as if you have outgrown a part of your life that used to be satisfying or if you have been surprised by difficult emotions and feelings regarding a part of your life, getting some help to gain clarity and to create options for yourself may be just what you need.
Some examples of life transitions include:
Separation/Divorce
- Adjusting to single life
- Co-parenting
- Dealing with the pain of a break-up
Geographic change
- Moving or relocation
- Being away from family
- Cultural adjustments
- Immigration
Developmental Transitions:
- Puberty
- Young adulthood
- Mid life
- Retirement
- End of life
Career/Education
- Career change or exploration
- Unemployment
- Retirement
- Education choices
Grief and Loss
- Loss of a loved one/pet
- Job loss or position change
- Loss of potential (fertility)
- Caregiving for elderly/sick family
Transition of Self
- Struggles with Self-esteem/worth
- Gender Transitioning
- Sexual orientation/expression
- Health/weight/hormonal changes
Recognize your strengths through counselling
As humans, we crave security and stability and comfort. At times fluctuation can feel overwhelming. Understanding how these changes are affecting you emotionally, mentally, physically, and spiritually can help. You have strengths that you may not even recognize are there within you. Utilizing these strengths and resources to overcome any challenges that you face can show you that going through a transition may be tough but can also be very rewarding.
Through a transition you will begin to know yourself in a more self-assured way and you may discover a new sense of who you are and what you can handle. This knowledge of oneself will help you feel prepared to welcome any changes and challenges that come your way in the future.